50th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Ireland: Release of Joint Document by Both Ministers for Foreign Affairs

December 16, 2006

1. March 5, 2007 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland.
2. To celebrate this 50th anniversary, the Governments of Japan and Ireland released joint document signed by Mr. Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, and Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ireland. (see attached document)
3. On the occasion of this memorable year 2007, the two Governments agree to further strengthen bilateral relations in political, economic and cultural fields, and further enhance mutual understanding between the people of the two countries through various exchanges.
4. Taking the opportunity of this 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two Governments will introduce a "Working Holiday Programme" scheme from January 1, 2007.
5. A list of commemorative events related to the 50th anniversary will be available on the websites of the Japanese Embassy in Ireland and the Irish Embassy in Japan.

Related Information (Japan-Ireland Relations)